Post-Fracture Stiffness: Physiotherapy Exercises You Can Start at Home

After weeks of wearing a plaster cast or surgical brace, having your orthopedic doctor announce that your bone fracture is officially healed brings immense relief. However, as soon as the cast is removed, many patients in Wayanad are startled to find their wrist, elbow, knee, or ankle tight, swollen, and painfully stiff.

Why Does Post-Fracture Stiffness Happen?

During bone healing, joint immobilization is vital. However, weeks of non-use cause contractures in joint capsules, shortening of surrounding tendons, fluid accumulation, and muscle weakness (disuse atrophy). Overcoming this stiffness requires methodical physical rehabilitation.

Safe Exercises You Can Start at Home

Note: Always ensure your orthopedic surgeon has cleared you for active movement before beginning home exercises.

1. Warm Water & Moist Heat Therapy: Soaking the stiff joint in warm water (or applying a warm towel) for 10-15 minutes prior to movement increases collagen elasticity and reduces joint viscosity.
2. Active Range of Motion (AROM) Glides: Slowly move the joint through its available range without forcing into sharp pain. Perform 10-15 smooth repetitions, 3 times daily.
3. Sub-Maximal Isometric Contractions: Gently tighten muscles around the joint without moving the joint itself. Hold for 5 seconds and relax.
4. Gentle Soft Tissue Massage: Massaging around the joint (avoiding unhealed skin incisions) promotes lymphatic drainage and releases tight fascia.

When to Seek Clinical Physiotherapy

While home exercises maintain basic mobility, severe joint stiffness (contracture) often requires specialized hands-on manual therapy techniques such as Maitland or Mulligan joint mobilizations, ultrasound therapy, and progressive loading protocols. At Physio Dynamics in Panamaram, Wayanad, Sandra Thomas creates tailored post-fracture recovery plans for patients across Wayanad.

Frequently Asked Questions